The Willow

Salix

The bark and leaves of the willow tree contain a precursor of salicylic acid when ingested. Salicylic acid in turn is a close relative of acetylsalicylic
acid, the main ingredient of aspirin, and has a very similar effect on the human body. In addition to salicin, willow bark contains other, less well-researched
substances.

The whole cocktail of ingredients combines to an herbal remedy which, like aspirin, is an effective pain killer and anti-inflammatory agent, without the undesirable side effects its
chemically processed sibling causes.

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Let's dive right in and start as we intend to continue - with the portrait of a medicinal plant that is quite famous for its healing qualities: The willow.

Whether it's a regency romance or a fantacy novel - the willow tree's bark is often found in the pages of a novel. It alleviates fevers and head colds, it cures a headache, and eases rheumatic
complaints. In fantasy novels it also serves as a pain killer for superficial battle wounds.

It does all those things in real life, too.

Willow bark contains salicin, which the body breaks
down into salicylic acid when ingested. Salicylic
acid in turn is a close relative of acetylsalicylic acid, the main ingredient of aspirin, and has a very similar effect on the human body.

In addition to salicin, willow bark contains other, less well-researched substances. The whole cocktail of ingredients combines to an herbal remedy which has most of the positive effects of
aspirin without the undesirable side effects its chemically processed sibling causes.

Modern phytotherapy uses willow bark extract to treat rheumatic complaints, arthritis, and gout, in addition to its traditional use as a pain killer and for fever reduction.

Some studies show willow is as effective as aspirin for reducing pain and inflammation (but not fever), and at a much lower dose. Scientists think that may be due to other compounds in the
herb. More research is needed.

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